Second Ball Rush

Objective

• -React to loose balls after the first action
• -Compete safely for second balls
• -Turn clearance into attack quickly

Setup

1. 1Set up a 20 x 15 yard area with a marked central drop zone.
2. 2Split into two teams with bibs for one side.
3. 3Coach stands outside with plenty of balls.
4. 4Use only age-appropriate heading with 12-plus players.

How to play

1. 1The coach tosses or serves a ball into the drop zone.
2. 2Players compete for the first contact and then the loose ball.
3. 3The team that wins the second ball attacks either end line target immediately.
4. 4After every clash, the coach sends in the next ball straight away.
5. 5Keep the action short and controlled.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Waiting for the ball to fall
• -Getting caught flat-footed
• -Overly aggressive contact